Prepared Foods Buyer *$1000 HIRING BONUS* chez Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op

Are you a detail-oriented food lover ready to make an impact behind the scenes? Love Local Food? Join our Deli team!

The Middlebury Natural Foods Co-op is seeking a Prepared Foods Buyer to help ensure our Prepared Foods Department is well-stocked, organized, and aligned with our mission of supporting local producers and healthy food access. This full-time role blends purchasing strategy, vendor relationships, and data management to support our team and customers.

What You'll Do:

• • Order and receive products to maintain a well-stocked department
  • Build strong relationships with vendors and producers
  • Analyze sales trends to make strategic buying decisions
  • Ensure pricing and product data are accurate and up to date
  • Collaborate on merchandising plans and department displays
  • Support inventory processes and maintain records
  • Provide excellent customer service and product knowledge

• Partner with the department manager on planning and goals

What We're Looking For:

• • Experience with purchasing, buying, or inventory systems
  • Strong attention to detail and time management
  • Clear communication and organizational skills

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for long periods, and work in coolers

Preferred Qualifications:

• Supervisory or team leadership experience
• Experience with recipe costing and margin tracking
• Familiarity with natural foods or co-op environments
• Proficiency with MS Excel and POS systems

Starting pay is $20-23, depending on experience.

Generous benefits package includes medical insurance, optional dental and vision, staff discount, life insurance, 3 weeks of paid time off, 401k, 20% store discount, paid parental leave, employee assistance program and more.

Seeking evening and weekend availability, this is a full-time, 32-40 hour position. Shifts are Sunday through Thursday